STATEMENT: Canadian Centre for Child Protection Calls for Action to Keep Kids Safe in Sport

Winnipeg, MB: The Canadian Centre for Child Protection (Canadian Centre) applauds the four women who stood united today to share their important stories, coming forward about the abuse they endured as young athletes. The incredible courage of Amélie-Frédérique Gagnon, Gail Kelly, Anna Prchal and Geneviève Simard will incite change that will protect future generations of children.

Too many victims have had to tell similar stories of abuse and, tragically, we know there are children continuing to be victimized today. We cannot allow this to continue. It is necessary that we come together and collaborate to provide a universal, accountable approach to safeguarding children in sport.

The Canadian Centre applauds the leadership by B2ten and the Coaching Association of Canada, and supports the four cornerstones called for today:

• Online training as to rights, responsibilities, obligations and awareness for athletes, coaches, professional service providers, and management, including the Canadian Centre’s Commit to Kids for Coaches online training.
• Development, adoption, and adherence of Policies and Procedures to prevent all forms of abuse.
• An independent avenue for parties to raise concerns when issues arise and, where appropriate, incident management.
• The rule of two; insuring, within reason, that young athletes are not left on their own with a coach, staff, or other personnel for extended duration.

The Canadian Centre continues to be dedicated to the personal safety of all children. We encourage all parents to advocate for the protection of their children by learning more and ensuring the organizations they entrust their children to are taking necessary steps to keep kids safe. Learn more about our Commit to Kids program here.